WOLVES have confirmed the signing of Tongan international prop Sitaleki Akauola from NRL side Penrith Panthers.

The 25-year-old joins on a two-year deal and becomes The Wire’s first recruit ahead of the 2018 season, subject to a visa being approved.

Akauola started his NRL career with Wests Tigers before joining the Panthers, for whom he has made 21 first-grade appearances.

“We’ve been monitoring the player market very carefully and waiting for the right type of player to become available,” Wolves chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick said.

“When we were made aware of Sitaleki’s availability we knew we had to act fast as he’s extremely well thought of in the NRL.

“With his aggressive style and explosive running, he gained a great reputation in Australia. I think he’ll become a firm favourite with the Warrington supporters.”